“I identify as orthodox. I believe Israel should be a theocracy. However I do not agree with the chareidi power grab”

The Interviewee – Aliza Silverstein (Born 1953), Chicago, Illinois.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“The existence of the Jewish state has importance to the Jewish people at the very least as a refuge should another Holocaust occur. To me personally, it represents a partial (beginning) fulfillment of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. It is also the one country where I truly feel at home.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Yes.”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“I identify as orthodox. I believe Israel should be a theocracy. However I do not agree with the chareidi power grab.”

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“No.“

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“It’s not all a bed of roses here.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“I do not know enough to answer.“

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Depends on details of the situation – I believe this to be too broad a question to answer..”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?

“Yes, Israelis can be brash and impatient – yet they are amazing – I love Israel – once again too broad a question to answer briefly.“

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?

“Relatively small community – close knit – all different levels of observance.”